THE Kilmarnock manager is in buoyant mood before showdown with Hibs and believes his team can come through unscathed and be stronger for next year.

Allan Johnston: "I know how passionate the fans are and how big a club it could be."

KILMARNOCK manager Allan Johnston has vowed to beat relegation and win over the disgruntled Rugby Park support – just like he did as a player.

Johnston has endured calls for his sacking in a tough first season in charge but he appealed for the fans to unite behind him and his team for today’s crucial showdown with Hibs.

Just avoiding defeat at Easter Road will be enough to keep Killie clear of second bottom of the Premiership and a nerve shredding play-off for survival.

And if they can get through it unscathed, Johnston is confident that he’ll make Killie stronger for next season – and win over the same fans who didn’t fancy him when he joined as a player in 2004.

Johnston, who was given a vote of confidence by the Board during a stormy club AGM this week, said: “I’m the same character as I was as a player.

“Actually, in my first season here I didn’t play well and got a bit of criticism – but I went on to do quite well over the years, so I suppose that shows a wee bit of determination.

“I always knew it was going to be really tough when I came in. The budget had been cut and we had lost a lot of experienced players.

“The timing was difficult as well – I came in at the very end, just before pre-season so I always knew it was going to be a tough test. And it proved to be that way. You learn every week and hopefully it makes you a better manager.

“At the AGM the supporters were passionate. They were desperate for us to be successful and I came out of it feeling a lot more positive.

“We need everybody pulling together because it makes a huge difference.

“I hope we can really kick on from here because this is a great club. I know how passionate the fans are and how big a club it could be. Hopefully I take it there.”